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Pella Dermatologist Offers Advice on Sunscreen

Warm and sunny weather is prompting many of us to spend more time outside, but it’s important to protect our skin from the summer sun. Dr. Jennifer Palmer with Iowa Dermatology in Pella says there are certain protections that consumers should look for when choosing sun protection.

“I would look for a number 30 to 45 SPF. You want to get a sunscreen that blocks both the ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B light,” says Dr. Palmer. “The sun puts out both types of rays, and most all sunscreens block ultraviolet B well, but ultraviolet A light can also cause aging of the skin and lead to immune suppression of the skin.”

Dr. Palmer adds that ingredients to look for on sunscreen include titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, and says sunscreen should be applied liberally at least 15 minutes prior to going outdoors and re-applied regularly every hour or two during time spent in the sunlight.